Security forces praised as dozens missing

Members of security forces take cover at the scene where explosions and gunshots were heard at the Dusit hotel compound, in Nairobi. [Beverlyne Musili/Standard]

Fifty people are still missing following the terrorist attack on an upscale hotel and office complex in Nairobi.

At exactly 10.42am yesterday, Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i made his way into dusitD2 Nairobi, at the 14 Riverside Drive, the scene of Tuesday’s terror attack. The CS commended security forces for their quick response and efficiency in ending the siege.

Kenya Red Cross Society (KRCS) Secretary General Abbas Gullet said 44 of the 94 people reported missing by relatives following the Tuesday’s attack had been found. 

“Overall, approximately 700 people were evacuated and 14 deaths reported as indicated by Government. I thank all Kenyans for their goodwill messages and support during this difficult period,” Dr Gullet said and congratulated the Government for a well-coordinated operation.

The entry into the building of Dr Matiang’i and his two colleagues; Raychelle Omamo (Defence) and Sicily Kariuki (Health) signaled the end of operation to secure the site.

When Matiang’i addressed the media at the scene, he was full of praise for the security personnel involved in the operation. He assured Kenya and the world that the country was safe.

The CS said the first phase of the operation had ended and asked Kenyans to go about their daily duties without fear. He asked everyone to remain vigilant.

However, Matiang’i said the scene would remain an active crime scene until investigations into the attack were concluded.

Gullet said 180 individuals had received professional counselling at the psycho-social support centre at Chiromo mortuary.

“At least 30 injuries were reported and were evacuated to Kenyatta National Hospital, Aga Khan Hospital, Avenue Park Hospital, MP Shah and Coptic Hospital among other health facilities,” Gullet said.

Before the CSs arrived at dusitD2 yesterday, gunshots rent the air from the 14 Riverside between 8am and 10am.

At 9am, six people were rescued from the building and taken to the counseling centre.

At 10am, police asked humanitarian agencies workers to move away from the scene, saying the criminals were trying to shoot at anyone from their hideout in the building. Minutes later, a car emerged from the building carrying an injured Recce squad officer, who was taken to Aga Khan Hospital.